Tag Archives: video production

If you grew up when I did then you may think that a great testimonial video includes a very enthusiastic person falling over themselves about the person or product they are selling. Since then, people have gotten smarter. They don't buy into cheesy testimonials when it comes to a big ticket item and their safety.…

In our last blog, we talked about preparing for your video shoot and provided 4 critical production steps. Today, we are talking about the day of the shoot and we've highlighted four important considerations.

Tip #1: Camera, Lighting, Sound

Pretty simple, really. Make sure your camera is charged and ready to roll. Have at least one professional photography light – there are plenty of affordable options out there. Invest in a microphone! Aspire to have something wireless, but a microphone attached to your talent is essential. As always, test your gear the day before and day of your shoot. And bring back ups!

A little powder goes a long way in reducing shine and glare. Come prepared with powder, lip gloss, and blush for your talent in case they require some touch ups during your shoot. We use MAC powder and recommend it for everyone. It’s best to stick with solid colors and simple necklines and avoid windblown hairstyles. Be observant of stray hairs, crooked collars, or an evolving hairstyle during the shoot so that the shots are consistent. You’ll find it all matters during the editing process!

Tip #3: Production Schedule, Script

To keep all participants on track and avoid unnecessary delays, a Production Schedule is highly advisable.

9:00 AM Videographer arrives, equipment set up and test

10:00 AM Talent arrives, makeup, script review

11:00 AM Q&A video series with doctor

12:30 PM Lunch

1:15 PM B-roll shots with doctor & patient coordinator

2:00 PM Office staff makeup and script prep

2:30 PM Brochure video: office tour & staff interviews

Scripts help relieve anxiety for your talent. Even if they stray from the exact wording, providing a script helps ensure the intended information is conveyed (no reshoots!).

Tip #4: Videographer, Director, Assistant

Video shoots go much smoother when you have a crew and each participant understands their unique contribution. For the majority of our shoots, the videographer is in charge of the equipment including sound and lighting. The producer/director is charge of the script, the storyline of each video, the set, and reviewing each take for consistency in color, sound, and set. The assistant handles everything else! From snacks and lunch, to prepping talent before and during shoots (they keep an eye out for shiny noses!), to acting as an extra in scenes as needed, assistants are vital to keeping the production schedule on track and enabling the producer/director to stay focused.

Next week, we will talk about the importance of B-roll and how it keeps viewers engaged and contributes more video for less money.

With the improvement of new phones and cameras these days, anyone can shoot a video. But don't think that shooting a video just means you need a camera - what you really need is a plan. Here are 4 critical video production preps that make every video better.

Step 1: Establish Your Objective
Who is your audience? What is your key message to this audience? What should viewers do as a result of this video?

Less is more when it comes to concepts. Create a great 2-minute-or-less video on a single topic instead of trying to cram multiple themes into one long video. Rambling videos are quick way to lose valuable viewers.

Step 2: Create a Script
Although it’s tempting to “wing it” on camera, it will leave you with long-winded explanations that drop viewers faster than a hot potato. Have a plan and a clear message that keeps your viewers interested, engaged, and queued to watch your next video.

Creating a script helps you stick to keywords and ideas you intend to convey. Even if you stray from the exact script, having taken the time to write one can keep you focused on your message. Creating a series of questions which guide the talent through their story is another way to ensure the resulting content fulfills your video objective.

Step 3: Confirm, Confirm, Confirm!

There’s nothing like investing time and money into a video project only to have the videographer double booked and your on-camera talent show up at the wrong location.
Check in with everybody involved in the video shoot a week before the shoot AND the day before your scheduled event. Confirm the date, time, and location.
Triple check your equipment needs: camera, sound, and lighting. And make sure batteries are charged!
Before every shoot, take the time to train and prepare video talent for their moment in the spotlight. From appropriate clothing choices to shiny noses, from posture to volume. It’s worth every penny.

Step 4: Relax
This isn’t surgery - have some fun. Know that perfection is not the objective, rather it is authenticity! Viewers will connect with you on a deeper level when you are at ease and genuine.

Coming up…. What should you always have ready for your video shoot? Tune in next week when we talk about what we bring to every shoot.